Herbs & Spices are a very important component of our diet, not only are they excellent for flavor in our food but for our overall health. They have high levels of disease combating antioxidants. In fact many herbs and spices have more of these components than eating fruits and vegetables. We cannot stress it enough how beneficial it is for you to add these to your favorite dishes when cooking.
Fresh vs. Dried: Although fresh herbs are wonderful to cook with, they can be costly and it is easier on the pocket book to buy them dried. You can substitute dry herbs for fresh in most recipes; however there are some recipes that fresh cannot be compromised, such as tabbouleh or pesto.
The essential oils in dried herbs are much more potent than in fresh, therefore you will want to scale down the measurement as follows: 1 Tbsp of fresh = 1 Tsp of dried.
To release the fragrance and oils in the dried, crumble the herb or rub them between your fingers before adding them to your dish.
Something to consider is fresh ginger and dried ginger taste completely different, so if the recipe calls for fresh ginger, there is no substitute. However, ginger can be placed in the freezer and used when needed, so no need to buy dried to avoid wasting.
References below are the health benefits of your favorite herbs:
Basil: Offers anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties for your health, also helps lower blood pressure and reduces ulcers
Bay Leaf: Great source of vitamins. Can actually be applied to a sting from an insect; it is antiseptic, anti-oxidant, and can aid digestion.
Cayenne Pepper: Increases metabolism; adjusts blood pressure to normal levels, good for the stomach and intestinal track and actually helps with ulcers.
Chili Peppers: Can help fight migraines and sinus headaches, can boost metabolism, help lower blood pressure and help lower inflammation.
Chives: Help with decongestion, lowers blood pressure and prevents blood clots, packed with vitamins and minerals.
Cinnamon: Regulates blood sugar levels, anti-clotting of blood, fights yeast, greatsource of fiber, Iron, manganese and calcium.
Cilantro: Heavy metal and mercury detoxifier, anti-inflammatory, aids digestion, a source of fiber, magnesium and iron and is helpful in fighting anemia.
Cumin: High concentration of antioxidants; aids and prevents digestive disorders, boosts immune system, increases metabolism and assists with respiratory conditions.
Curry: Helps to burn fat, boosts immune system, aids in digestion and is rich in antioxidants
Dill: Aids in digestion, hiccups, insomnia and diarrhea. Dill is also a relaxant and diuretic; also known for being a breath freshener and the antioxidants aid in oral care.
Garlic: Benefits our cardiovascular system, is a natural antibiotic, rich in antioxidants and is anti-fungal. Garlic is also said to manage blood pressure and cholesterol levels, however research shows inconclusive to these two.
Ginger: Helps with digestions and alleviates motion sickness and nausea, also known for the treatment of cough and congestion from the common cold.
Mint: Ability to settle a nervous stomach and is anti-fungal, also known for soothing the digestive track and lessen severity of stomach aches. Eases discomfort of IBS.
Miso: Known to be a B12 supplement, it is also a source of minerals, copper, zinc, and manganese. In addition to the health benefits, it also has 2 grams of protein in just one tablespoon!
Nutmeg: Anti-bacterial kills cavity causing bacteria in the mouth, beneficial to the heart, assist muscles and also aids in controlling asthma. It is also well known to help improve our memory.
Oregano: Rich in vitamin K, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. Is anti-bacterial and is a natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Paprika: Rich in capsaicin, which anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may lower the risk of cancer. Rich in vitamin C, and because of this, your body can absorb iron-rich foods and can aid in the fight of infection.
Parsley: Rich in vitamin K, anti-cancer agents, anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants, and supports a healthy immune system.
Rosemary: Known for soothing effects to help with fatigue, muscle strains, digestive paints, indigestion, and anxiety. It is also known for relieving stomach pains, insomnia and calming of the nerves.
Sage: Known to be on the top antioxidant herb and is also an anti-inflammatory. It is known to enhance memory and also be effective in symptoms of menopause and hot flashes.
Thyme: Rich in vitamins and minerals and known as apowerful antiseptic, antibacterial, and is a strong antioxidant. Has anti-cancer properties and can be used to treat bronchitis and inflamed upper respiratory track. It is also used to relieve joint ache and sooth pains.
These are just to name a few; there are many more herbs and spices that have amazing health benefits. Wikipedia is a great source to reference for additional information on herbs that you use from your pantry.
Remember, herbs and spices have been used for centuries to cure illness, so next time you have a cold, headache or upset stomach, take a look at what is in your pantry before rushing to the pharmacy to spend money on medicine… you just be able to cure your issues yourself and you may just save yourself some money!
Interesting Food Fact
Did You Know?
An onion, apple and potato all have the same taste. The differences in flavour are caused by their smell.
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